From the 'March of Time' series, this fascinating film documents the high-end night club scene of New York City in the post-war years. Scenes and people include the 21 Club, discussing expensive tipping, poor quality food, and showing visitors Orson Welles and Elliott Rockefeller. The El Morocco Club; The Stork Club, showing celebs Jinx Falkenberg, Otto Preminger, and Ed Wynn; Jimmy Dorsey and band at the 400 Club; the Ink Spots singing at the Zanzibar; Greb & Lober dancing at the Embassy Club; La Martinique Club featuring Danny Thomas; Cafe Society owner Barney Josephson coaching Guadeloupe singer Moune (Cecile Moumoune de Virel Jean-Louis) on poise and showmanship, and featuring a song of hers (she was profiled in Life Magazine's April 1, 1946 issue); Eddie Condon's jazz club; outrageous performances at Sammy’s Bowery Follies. Moune was . The advertising copy for this film read "The modern family has a nice home, the latest electronics, an up-to-date kitchen, and money to spare for entertainment. Family outings may include a movie, a basketball, or hockey game, or bowling In New York’s “Bistro Belt” adults have their choices of fine dining, dancing, or attending a show."
Reviewer:kerriganm
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July 13, 2015 Subject:
Great fun and a vicarious thrill.
Fun look at the "post-war" night club scene in New York. If, like me, you've seen tantalizing glimpses of the big night clubs in books and movies of the time, you'll get a thrill here. El Morrocco! Copacabana! The 21 Club! (Excuse the brag- I've actually had lunch at 21! Gloat!)
Unfortunately, the only famous face that will ring bells today is that of Orson Welles. I'd like to have done more star-spotting here.
The backstage look at these Meccas is fascinating. Too bad these days are gone.
